MUSCAT – New data for 2025 reveals that customs officers successfully intercepted over 1,000 smuggling-related cases in 2025- reflecting a 10 per cent increase compared to the previous year – and processed 1.29 million declarations in 2025, while simultaneously slashing goods release times to record lows.
On the occasion of International Customs Day (January 26), under the theme ‘Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment,’ Oman’s customs officials have reaffirmed their role as the nation’s first line of defence.
Brigadier General Said bin Khamis al Ghaithi, Director-General of Customs, stated that the authority has transitioned from a traditional regulatory body into a high-tech “integrated risk management system.” By leveraging the Bayan platform, authorities are now using AI-driven indicators to flag high-risk shipments before they even reach the border.
Read More
- Eight expats arrested for gambling in Oman’s Buraimi Wilayat
- Indian community in Oman marks India’s 77th Republic Day with patriotic celebrations
- Aluminium workshop in North Sharqiyah penalised RO 1,800 for violating Oman’s Consumer Protection Law
- Qawwali Night draws 4,000-plus audience at Muscat Nights Festival
- Muscat Nights festival draws over 1.5 million visitors
Enhanced controls, he noted, are designed to block prohibited goods that pose threats to public safety while supporting legitimate commerce.
In parallel with enforcement efforts, customs procedures have been streamlined to support economic growth. Trade volumes continued to expand in 2025, with non-oil exports increasing by 1 percent and imports rising by 13 percent, according to official figures.
Cargo clearance times were reduced to historic lows, averaging 1 minute and 36 seconds at land ports, 1 minute and 25 seconds at seaports, and 1 minute and 55 seconds at airports. These gains have boosted the logistics sector and reinforced Oman’s standing as a regional hub for trade and re-exports.
Digital transformation efforts enabled customs authorities to process over 1.29 million customs declarations during the year without compromising control standards. In addition, more than 140,000 government permits were issued through the Single Window system, with some approvals completed in seconds.
A key driver of this success is the Secure Customs Corridor, which provides seamless transit between Omani airports and major free zones in Duqm, Sohar, and Salalah. Furthermore, the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) program is deepening partnerships with the private sector, allowing compliant businesses to bypass traditional hurdles.
With the activation of the International Road Transport (TIR) system, Oman has solidified its status as a premier regional hub for re-exports, bridging the gap between global manufacturers and regional markets.
